Cycle helmets provide crucial protection for the delicate skull and can save lives while significantly reducing brain damage in the event of an impact. They can decrease the risk of head injuries by 60% and brain injuries by 53%. It is predicted that riding a helmet would help reduce cycling car accidents yearly would be reduced.
Your helmet should be placed just above your eyebrows, covering your forehead. Keep it from moving too far forward or backward. Adjust the side straps and the chin strap. Organize the straps in a V shape under your earlobes. Ensure the side straps lie flat. The chin strap should fit about two fingers between your chin and the strap.
In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps to properly wear a cycling helmet for optimal safety.
Key Takeaways
- Cycling helmet fitting is crucial for optimal safety. It involves putting it on and ensuring it fits well and is adjusted correctly.
- Initially, select the right helmet size. This involves measuring the head circumference above the eyebrows and ears and referring to the manufacturer's sizing chart for the right match. The helmet should feel snug but not too tight.
- Position the helmet correctly. It should sit level on the head, covering the forehead and just above the eyebrows. A two-finger width should be between the eyebrows and the helmet's front edge.
- Chin and side straps play essential roles in helmet safety. The chin strap buckle should be fastened securely, fitting snugly under the chin without restricting movement. A Y-shape should be formed below each ear, adjusted to lie flat against the face.
- Perform a final safety check before cycling. Confirm that the helmet sits level, the chin strap is tight, and the side straps are correctly adjusted.
How To Wear A Cycling Helmet: 6 Essential Tips
A bicycle is an excellent means of staying active and enjoying the outdoors, but safety should always be the top priority. A helmet is essential for protecting you in case of a fall or collision while cycling. A helmet must be worn correctly, not simply to provide maximum protection. Here are some tips for wearing a cycling helmet safely.
Size Matters
The first step in wearing a cycling helmet correctly is selecting the correct size. A too big or too small helmet will not offer adequate protection in an accident. Follow these guidelines to determine the correct helmet size:
Circumference of your head
- Tape a flexible measure around your head, between your eyebrows and ears.
- The measurement should be noted and compared to the helmet manufacturer's sizing chart.
Try on different sizes
- A local bike shop can provide you with helmets in various sizes.
- Make it tight enough, but make sure it fits snugly.
Adjust the sizing mechanism
- Most helmets come with a dial or strap at the back to adjust the fit.
- Adjust the sizing mechanism until the helmet feels secure and sits level on your head.
Positioning the Helmet Correctly
Once you've selected the right size helmet, it's essential to position it correctly on your head for optimal protection. Follow these steps to ensure proper helmet positioning:
Position it level
- Place the helmet on your head so it sits level, covering your forehead without tilting backward or forward.
Allow two finger's width
- Ensure there is about a two-finger width between your eyebrows and the front edge of the helmet.
Side alignment
- The helmet should sit low on your head, just above your eyebrows, covering the top of your forehead.
Secure the chin strap
- Buckle the chin strap securely and adjust it to fit snugly under your chin without being too tight or loose.
Buckles and Their Function
The buckles on a cycling helmet are crucial in securing the helmet to your head. Here's how to manage the buckles effectively:
Fasten the chin strap buckle
- Insert the buckle into the corresponding receptacle until you hear a click.
- Pull the strap to ensure a secure fit without causing discomfort.
Check for proper engagement
- Ensure the buckle is fully engaged and the strap has no gaps or slack.
Adjust for comfort
- If the chin strap feels too loose or tight, you can adjust the straps using the change sliders to achieve a comfortable fit.
Proper change of Side Straps
The side straps of a cycling helmet ensure that the helmet is secured correctly and does not shift during the ride. Follow these steps to adjust the side straps correctly:
Position the Y junction
- The side straps should form a Y shape around each ear, meeting at a point where they attach to the helmet.
Adjust the length
- Use the sliders on the side straps to adjust their length.
- Ensure that the straps lie flat against your face without twisting or overlapping.
Secure the straps
- Once adjusted, double-check that the side straps are secure and sit comfortably against your head.
Snug fit with the chin strap
The chin strap of a cycling helmet is critical for keeping the helmet in place during a ride. Here's how to ensure the chin strap provides a snug and secure fit:
Centering the buckle
- Position the chin strap buckle directly under your chin.
Adjusting the strap length
- Tighten or loosen the chin strap until you feel comfortable and it does not restrict your movement.
Performing a shake test
- Get your head moving up and down and from side to side.
- The helmet should remain in place without shifting or coming loose.
Final Check
Before heading out on your cycling adventure, perform a last check to ensure your helmet is properly fitted and secured. Here's a quick checklist to follow:
Helmet position
- Verify that the helmet is level on your head and covers your forehead and just above your eyebrows.
Chin strap
- You should ensure the chin strap is securely fastened and fits snugly under your chin.
Side straps
- Confirm that the side straps are shaped like a Y below each ear and are adjusted to lie flat.
Conclusion
Safety should always be a top priority if you're a casual biker or preparing for a thrilling mountain biking expedition. With our step-by-step guide on wearing your cycling helmet correctly, you are now well-prepared to take on any bike path ahead. Remember, it's not just about wearing a helmet. It's about wearing it right to ensure maximum protection.
